The political storm in Rivers State has taken a new turn with the recently appointed Administrator, Ibok-Ete Ibas, publicly condemning the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) for its decision to move the 2025 Annual General Conference from Port Harcourt to Enugu. In a strongly worded statement released today, Administrator Ibas did not mince words, accusing the NBA of “hypocrisy” and demanding a refund of the N300 million allegedly paid by the Rivers State government for hosting the event.
Administrator Ibas expressed his disappointment and disapproval of the NBA’s move, suggesting that the decision was politically motivated and failed to acknowledge the efforts made by the state to ensure a successful conference. He argued that the reasons cited by the NBA for the relocation were not substantial and that the state had provided adequate assurances regarding the safety and logistical arrangements for the event.
“It is with utter dismay that we received the news of the NBA’s unilateral decision to relocate its prestigious Annual General Conference from our beloved Port Harcourt to Enugu,” the Administrator stated. “This decision smacks of hypocrisy and disregards the significant investment and commitment made by the Rivers State government to host a memorable and successful event.”
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He further emphasized the financial implications of the relocation, asserting that the Rivers State government had already disbursed a substantial sum of N300 million to support the hosting of the conference. “We demand a full and immediate refund of this N300 million. The good people of Rivers State will not bear the financial burden of a decision that we believe is unjust and unwarranted,” Administrator Ibas declared.
The Administrator’s statement did not explicitly detail the specific reasons cited by the NBA for the relocation. However, it is likely connected to the recent political upheaval in Rivers State, including the suspension of the Governor and the subsequent appointment of an administrator. Concerns about the stability and security within the state may have influenced the NBA’s decision to seek an alternative location for its high-profile annual gathering.
The NBA is yet to officially respond to Administrator Ibas’s criticisms and demand for a refund. This development adds another layer of complexity to the already intricate political situation in Rivers State. The relocation of such a significant event like the NBA’s Annual General Conference could have broader implications for the state’s image and its ability to attract future large-scale events.
The clash between the Rivers State administration and the NBA is expected to generate further reactions from legal professionals, civil society organizations, and political analysts. It remains to be seen how the NBA will address the accusations of hypocrisy and the demand for the N300 million refund. This unfolding saga highlights the far-reaching consequences of the ongoing political instability in Rivers State, extending beyond the immediate political actors to impact various sectors and organizations.
